Author: Staff Writer

Categories
Corporate

BMW Group India sales rise 17% in first half of 2026

BMW Group India recorded its best-ever first-half sales, delivering 9,075 vehicles between January and June 2026, a 17% increase over the same period last year. The strong performance reflects rising demand for premium vehicles and electric cars in the Indian market.

The company sold 8,623 BMW and MINI cars and 452 BMW Motorrad motorcycles, making it the highest first-half sales figure in its history. The growth also helped BMW narrow the gap with rival Mercedes-Benz in India’s competitive luxury car segment.

Electric vehicles played a major role in the company’s success. BMW reported a 78% jump in EV deliveries, highlighting the growing acceptance of premium electric mobility among Indian buyers. Popular electric models such as the BMW iX1, i4 and iX continued to attract strong demand, supported by expanding charging infrastructure and increasing consumer interest in sustainable transportation.

BMW said sports utility vehicles (SUVs) remained its biggest growth driver, accounting for a significant share of overall sales. Models including the X1, X3, X5 and X7 continued to perform well, while premium sedans also maintained steady demand.

According to the company, the strong results were driven by a combination of new product launches, customer confidence and a broader shift towards premium mobility. BMW also credited its growing digital sales initiatives and improved after-sales services for helping strengthen customer engagement.

The company remains optimistic about the rest of the year, expecting demand for luxury vehicles to stay healthy despite global economic uncertainties.

Also Read: Apple sues OpenAI over alleged trade secrets theft

Categories
Corporate

SK Hynix raises $26.5 bn in record US IPO

South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix has raised $26.5 billion through a record-breaking initial public offering (IPO) in the United States, marking one of the largest listings ever by an Asian company. The successful share sale highlights strong investor confidence in the global semiconductor industry, particularly as demand for artificial intelligence (AI) chips continues to surge.

The company priced its shares at the top end of the expected range after receiving overwhelming interest from institutional investors. The blockbuster IPO reflects growing optimism about the long-term growth of AI, cloud computing and high-performance data centres, all of which require advanced memory chips.

SK Hynix is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of DRAM and NAND flash memory chips. The company has emerged as a key supplier of high-bandwidth memory (HBM), an essential component used in AI processors powering technologies such as generative AI and large language models.

Company officials said the funds raised through the IPO will support future investments in research, advanced chip manufacturing and production capacity. The investment is expected to help SK Hynix meet rising global demand while maintaining its competitive position in the fast-growing AI semiconductor market.

The successful listing also reflects renewed investor appetite for technology companies after a period of market uncertainty. Analysts believe the IPO could encourage more global technology firms to explore public listings as confidence returns to equity markets.

Also Read: BMW Group India sales rise 17% in first half of 2026

Categories
1 Minute-Read

Apple sues OpenAI over alleged trade secrets theft

Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and two former employees, alleging they misused confidential company information related to its hardware development.

The tech giant claims the employees copied sensitive trade secrets before leaving Apple and later used the knowledge while working on OpenAI’s AI hardware initiatives. Apple is seeking damages and a court order to prevent the alleged use of its proprietary information.

OpenAI has denied any wrongdoing and said it will contest the claims. The case adds to growing legal disputes as technology companies race to develop next-generation AI-powered hardware.

Categories
Leaders

Xbox Chief Asha Sharma to lead US jobs taskforce

Microsoft executive and Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has been appointed to lead a new US Jobs Task Force, a move aimed at helping workers prepare for the changing demands of an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

The announcement comes shortly after Microsoft laid off around 3,200 employees, including staff across several business divisions. While the timing has drawn attention, the company says the new task force is focused on the long-term challenge of equipping workers with skills needed for future jobs rather than responding directly to the recent layoffs.

The task force will bring together leaders from business, education and public policy to identify ways of improving workforce training, expanding digital skills and helping more people adapt to rapidly changing workplaces. Artificial intelligence, automation and other advanced technologies are expected to reshape millions of jobs over the coming years, increasing the need for continuous learning and reskilling.

Sharma, who has held leadership roles across Microsoft’s AI and consumer businesses before taking charge of Xbox, is expected to guide discussions on how technology companies can work with governments and educational institutions to create better employment opportunities.

Industry experts say the appointment reflects a growing recognition that AI will transform the nature of work rather than simply replace jobs. Many companies are now investing in programmes that help employees develop new technical and digital skills to remain competitive in the evolving job market.

The announcement has sparked discussion because it follows Microsoft’s latest round of workforce reductions. While some observers see a contrast between layoffs and the launch of a jobs initiative, others believe the move highlights the need to prepare workers for the next generation of careers shaped by AI and digital transformation.

Microsoft has said it remains committed to investing in artificial intelligence while supporting workforce development through partnerships and training initiatives. The company believes collaboration between businesses, governments and educators will be essential to help workers navigate technological change.

Also Read: Anthropic brings Reflect dashboard for Claude users

Categories
Beyond

Gold at ₹1,44,330, silver at ₹2,40,100 today

Gold prices remained under pressure on Saturday, giving buyers a slight respite after recent highs. According to the latest bullion rates, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹1,44,330 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold costs ₹1,32,300 per 10 grams. Silver is trading at ₹2,40,100 per kilogram, with prices also witnessing a mild correction.

The latest decline follows a week of sharp movements in precious metal prices. Market experts say changing global economic conditions, a stronger US dollar and expectations over future interest rate decisions by the US Federal Reserve have influenced investor sentiment, leading to fluctuations in gold and silver prices.

Gold continues to remain a preferred investment during periods of uncertainty, but its prices have become more volatile in recent weeks. International developments, including geopolitical tensions and movements in global financial markets, are also impacting domestic bullion prices.

Rates vary slightly across cities because of local taxes and transportation costs. In addition to the market price, buyers purchasing jewellery will have to pay GST and making charges, which differ from one jeweller to another.

Silver has also mirrored global trends. Apart from investment demand, the metal is widely used in industries such as electronics, solar energy and electric vehicles. Changes in industrial demand often influence silver prices, making them more volatile than gold.

Jewellers say the latest correction has encouraged enquiries from customers planning purchases for weddings and upcoming festive occasions. However, many buyers are still waiting to see if prices fall further before making large purchases.

Also Read: BSNL launches satellite phone priced at ₹1.34 lakh

Categories
Technology

Meta lets Instagram users block AI photo access

Meta has introduced a new option that allows Instagram users to prevent their photos from being accessed for certain artificial intelligence (AI) features, giving people more control over how their content is used on the platform.

The update comes as concerns over AI-generated content and data privacy continue to grow. With the new setting, users can choose to opt out of allowing eligible public photos to be used for Meta’s AI image-generation feature, known as Muse.

According to Meta, the feature is designed to help users better manage their privacy preferences. Those who do not want their images to be considered for AI-related purposes can disable the option through Instagram’s settings. The company says the process is simple and can be completed in a few steps without affecting normal use of the app.

The move follows increasing scrutiny of how technology companies use publicly available content to train or support AI tools. Many users have expressed concerns about personal photos being reused without their knowledge, prompting platforms to offer greater transparency and more privacy controls.

Meta has clarified that the setting is intended to provide users with a choice and improve trust in its AI services. The company says it remains committed to responsible AI development while ensuring users understand how their content may be used.

Technology experts say the update reflects a wider industry trend, with digital platforms introducing stronger privacy safeguards as AI tools become more common. Giving users the ability to opt out is expected to address concerns around consent and personal data while encouraging greater confidence in AI-powered products.

Users who wish to disable the feature can visit Instagram’s privacy and AI settings, where the relevant option is available. Once turned off, eligible images from the account will no longer be used for the specified AI image-generation purposes.

The new control arrives at a time when discussions around AI ethics, transparency and user rights are gaining momentum worldwide. As AI technology continues to evolve, experts believe giving users greater control over their personal data will remain an important part of building trust between platforms and their communities.

Also Read: BSNL launches satellite phone priced at ₹1.34 lakh

Categories
Beyond

Centre clears Dixon-Vivo smartphone venture

The Centre has approved the proposed joint venture between Dixon Technologies and Vivo Mobile India, paving the way for the two companies to expand smartphone manufacturing in the country. The clearance is seen as a major boost for India’s electronics manufacturing sector and the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The approval has been granted under Press Note 3, which governs foreign investments from countries sharing a land border with India. Under the agreement, Dixon Technologies will hold a 51% stake in the new venture, while Vivo India will own the remaining 49%, ensuring majority Indian ownership in line with government regulations.

Following the approval, the two companies have signed definitive joint venture and shareholders’ agreements to formally establish the new entity. The venture will manufacture smartphones and electronic devices in India, primarily for Vivo, while also producing devices for other brands as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

The partnership is expected to significantly increase local smartphone production and strengthen India’s position as a global electronics manufacturing hub. Industry experts believe the venture will improve supply chain efficiency, generate employment and reduce dependence on imports.

The approval comes after months of regulatory scrutiny and is being viewed as an important milestone for both companies. For Vivo, it provides a stable manufacturing base in one of its largest markets, while Dixon stands to further strengthen its leadership in the electronics manufacturing services (EMS) segment.

Investors reacted positively to the development, with Dixon Technologies’ shares gaining in early trade as the government nod removed a key uncertainty surrounding the deal. Analysts expect the partnership to boost the company’s manufacturing volumes and support long-term revenue growth.

The joint venture also reflects India’s evolving strategy of encouraging global companies to manufacture locally through partnerships with Indian firms. As smartphone demand continues to grow, the new venture is expected to play a significant role in expanding domestic production and enhancing India’s export potential.

Also Read: Fed chief Warsh names members for reform panels

Categories
Beyond

Fed chief Warsh names members for reform panels

Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh has named members of five new task forces that will review the US central bank’s policies and operations, bringing together experts from business, technology, finance and academia to help shape its future direction.

The advisory panels have been formed to examine important areas including monetary policy communication, the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet, economic data, productivity and employment, and the central bank’s inflation framework. Their recommendations are expected to help the Fed adapt to changing economic conditions and technological advancements.

The task forces include several well-known names from across industries. Venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, former Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan, economist Greg Mankiw, Nobel laureate Thomas Sargent, economist Raj Chetty, former Bank of England Governor Mervyn King, and former Brazilian central bank chief Arminio Fraga are among those selected.

According to the Federal Reserve, the panels will provide independent advice and fresh perspectives on issues that are becoming increasingly important for policymakers. One group will focus on improving how the central bank communicates its decisions, while others will study the impact of artificial intelligence, labour productivity, inflation trends and the use of economic data in policymaking.

Warsh said the initiative reflects the need for the Federal Reserve to evolve alongside a rapidly changing global economy. He noted that insights from leaders across different sectors would help strengthen the institution’s ability to respond to future economic challenges.

The task forces will act in an advisory role, with any policy changes continuing to require approval through the Federal Reserve’s established decision-making process.

Also Read: Delhi HC upholds Vedanta’s ₹950 cr arbitration award

Categories
Beyond

Delhi HC upholds Vedanta’s ₹950 cr arbitration award

The Delhi High Court has upheld a foreign arbitration award in favour of Vedanta Ltd, marking a significant legal victory for the company in its long-running dispute over the Ravva oil and gas fields. The decision allows the enforcement of an arbitral award worth nearly ₹950 crore, strengthening Vedanta’s position in the case.

The dispute relates to the Ravva offshore oil and gas project, where disagreements arose over contractual obligations and financial claims. After the matter was decided through international arbitration, Vedanta approached the Delhi High Court to enforce the foreign award in India.

In its ruling, the court held that the award met the legal requirements for enforcement under Indian law and rejected objections raised against its execution. The judgment reinforces India’s commitment to recognising and enforcing foreign arbitral awards, provided they comply with the provisions of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act.

The verdict was welcomed by investors, with shares of Vedanta gaining around 5 per cent during trading after news of the ruling. Market participants viewed the decision as a positive development for the company, as it could improve cash flows and reduce uncertainty surrounding the prolonged legal dispute.

Legal experts said the judgment highlights India’s evolving arbitration framework and sends a positive signal to global investors about the country’s willingness to honour international arbitration decisions. They noted that such rulings strengthen confidence in India’s legal environment for resolving cross-border commercial disputes.

Vedanta, one of India’s leading natural resources companies, has interests across oil and gas, metals, mining and energy. The Ravva oil field remains an important asset within its energy portfolio.

While the court’s decision represents a major milestone, any further legal remedies available to the opposing parties will depend on applicable judicial procedures. For now, the ruling brings the long-running dispute a step closer to closure.

Also Read: Novo Nordisk launches once-weekly insulin Awiqli in India

Categories
Corporate

Dr Reddy’s delays semaglutide supplies over quality issue

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has delayed the supply of its semaglutide products after identifying a quality issue with the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), pushing back planned shipments and triggering a decline in the company’s share price.

The Hyderabad-based drugmaker said the issue relates to a specific batch of the API used to manufacture semaglutide, a widely prescribed medicine for type 2 diabetes and weight management. The company stressed that the problem was detected during its quality checks and that patient safety remains its top priority.

As a precaution, Dr. Reddy’s has decided to postpone supplies until the issue is fully resolved and fresh batches meet all quality standards. The company did not disclose how long the delay would last but said it is working closely with suppliers and regulators to address the problem at the earliest.

The announcement comes at a time when demand for semaglutide-based medicines is rising rapidly across global markets. Pharmaceutical companies have been expanding production capacity to meet growing demand for diabetes and obesity treatments, making any disruption in supply closely watched by investors and healthcare providers.

Following the announcement, shares of Dr. Reddy’s came under pressure as investors assessed the potential impact on near-term sales and product launches. Analysts, however, noted that the delay appears to be linked to quality control rather than regulatory action, highlighting the company’s decision to prioritise compliance and product safety.

Dr. Reddy’s has not indicated any impact on its broader product portfolio and reiterated its commitment to delivering high-quality medicines. The company said it will resume supplies once the affected API issue is resolved and manufacturing meets the required quality benchmarks.

Also Read: Rupee gains 15 paise despite RBI’s dollar challenge